Scripture

Matthew 14:28-32 (New Living Translation)

Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.”

“Yes, come,” Jesus said.

So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.

Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”

When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped.

Consider

Jesus wants us to walk with him above the turmoil of a troubled relationship. When we focus on the way we’ve been hurt, on the flaws of our adversary, or on what we have lost because of someone’s thoughtless or malicious behavior, then we get bogged down in bitterness and despair.

Conflict loses its power to hurt and dominate us when we raise our eyes to Jesus and walk where he is walking.

Pray

FATHER, help me to step out of my old habits and ineffective ways of dealing with conflict and to walk with you above the conflict. Give me faith to keep my attention on you and not on the worrisome things that can pull me under. Thank you for your faithful hand that saves me when I cry out for your help.

Reflect

Matthew 6:33; Isaiah 40:29-31

Share

When have you felt overwhelmed by a troubled relationship? What would help you at such times to fix your eyes on Jesus?